2019 Convention Minutes-CP - AIDA Inc

February 2019 | AIDA Inc. AGM and Convention | Canberra | ACT

AGM and Annual Convention of AIDA Inc | Canberra | 23.02.2019 | 24.02.2019

AIDA Inc – 2019 AGM & CONVENTION

Canberra, Australia – 23 & 24 February 2019 AIDA Inc – 2019 CONVENTION

Canberra, Australia – 23 & 24 February 2019 AGENDA

Present: Christine Portbury, Catherine Cosgriff, Janice Currie-Henderson, Fiona Holmes, Caroline O’Driscoll, Melissa Kennedy, Hilary McKenna, Teresa Fenton, Jenny O’Hare, Eileen Ashley, Caroline McCarthy, Jarred Ellis, Ashlee Renshaw, Charmaine May, Catherine Poulton, Monica Poulton, Elizabeth Lewis, Bernadette Weeks, Michelle Gough, Samarah Symons, Leanne McGrath, Gabrielle Hall, Alison Pickett, Liz Gregory, Jackie Gregory, Megan Palmer, Yvonne Hill, Yvette Jackson, Breeda Peirce, Ann Truman, Charlotte Sweeney, Kate Hartley, Maggie Gaffney, Margaret Dempsey, Bernadette Helbig, Eleanor Grose, Donna Reilly-Cannon, Donna Carey, Monica Simpson, Tammi Curtis, Glenys Ritchie, Kelli-Rai Howden, Chris Carswell, Genevieve Carroll, Ann Derwent, Alicia Dunne, Gabrielle Dinn, Sarah Hockley, Kirrienne Coughlan, Hayley Cannon, Charmayne Dulley, Clare McAleer, Stephanie Fereday, Jennifer Bird, Clare Bowman, Kathleen Beattie Apologies: Martine Micklem, Bianca Nicholls, Ann Pololenko, Louise Hanratty, Adrian Walker, Sean Kelliher, Charmaine Paddock, Catherine Crocker, Julie Idema, Bridget Bazzo, Clare Earl, Christine Folan, Mary McGregor, Tegan McGregor, Vicki Paulin, Maria Maher, Sandra Danastas, Niamh Champion, Ciara Podesta, Aislinn Podesta, Eleanor Rooney, Roisin Lyons, Vicki Lynagh, Kate Smith, Kate Woodward, Clare Michelson, Margaret Atkinson, Karen Clark, Mairead Bilton-Gough, Avril Grealish, Char Chase, Renne O’Farrell, Rebecca Jackson, Cheryl Medley, Jacqui Bigby, Fiona Gaye Moore, Danah Pitman, Megan Cousins, Donna Halloran, Leanne Halloran, Branagh Kelly, Catherine Crocker, Christine Ayres, Michael Padgett, Liam Ayres, Jennifer Devlin, Conor Ayres, Michelle Burgess, Lara Upton, Emilie Helbig, Elise Furlong, Laura McBride, Brighid Mackness, Kathryn Trenholme, Jan Berne, Alli Bennett, Deirdre Murphy, James McEvoy, Kate Halloran, Eilis Melino, Rochelle Melino, Heather Fraser, Suzanne Hayes, Shannon Krupa, Steph Howard, Sheryl Watkins, Tegan Horwood, Anita Plaza, Kelly Rumble, Kain Howden, Danny Jackson, Katherine Travers, Rose O’Brien, Martina O’Brien, Karen Cividin, Katelyn Dempsey, Cathy Seidel, Maria Maher (Saturday Only), David Laws, Caroline Gossip, John Joyce, Angela Fogarty, Brendan Tiernan, Rebecca Lewis, Jacqueline Ryan, Hayley Delaney, Molly Rafferty, Kathy Challen, Jackie Miller, Glenalee Bromilow, Lisa Wyatt, Michelle Burgess, Siobhan Truman, Anne Marie O’Neil, Lynn Crafter, Kathy Challen, Kain Howden, Margaret Atkinson, Heather Fraser, Brendan Tiernan, Carmel Doyle, Mary Grantham. 1. President/Chairperson’s Welcome – Christine Portbury Welcome on behalf of the new Council. We are looking forward to working together in 2019 and are looking at ways to improve our communication with the membership. A regular newsletter will be distributed which will include updates from council and the CLRG. We ask all members to approach their delegates or council members regarding any questions, issues or concerns they may have.



We are looking at ways to save costs and have decided that all our council meetings will be held in Melbourne as the majority of Council live in Victoria. The meetings will be held in one day so as to save on accommodation costs. The council are also going to take back other areas of responsibility including the trophy room at the Nationals and other areas where there is a cost to AIDA Inc. 2. Acceptance of Meeting Procedure to be followed Moved: Genevieve Carroll Seconded: Gabrielle Hall All in favour Carried 3. Confirmation of votes Confirmation of votes 11.30am: 55 members present 87 proxy votes TOTAL: 142 4. Amendments to the Minutes of the previous Convention Hannah Wass (2018 Australian logo designer) is a member of Walker-Kick in Queensland 5. Acceptance of the Minutes of the previous Convention Moved: Kate Hartley Seconded: Leanne McGrath All in favour Carried 6. Matters arising out of the Minutes of the previous Convention 7. Correspondence – Chris Carswell Letter received from Margaret Atkinson Convention items 8. Business arising from correspondence – Nil 9. Acceptance of correspondence Moved: Hilary McKenna Seconded: Elizabeth Gregory All in favour Carried



10. AIDA Inc./CLRG Business 10.1 Motion to include Patron and Founding Members in the AIDA Inc. Council Motion: That a Patron and/or any founding member/s of AIDA with continuous membership with their Regional branch and/or AIDA Inc, be appointed as non voting members to the National Council. Moved: Christine Portbury Seconded: Hilary McKenna Discussion: The reason Christine raised this is due to the success of the 50th Championship in Adelaide and the recognition of both Janice Currie-Henderson and Catherine Cosgriff at CLRG level made it apparent that they should be non-voting members on our AIDA Inc Council. A Power Point presentation indicated how this extra expense would be absorbed. Council Expected Income & Expenses in 2019 Income: Membership - $24,849 Dancer Registration: $22,000 Feis Registration: $5400 TOTAL: $52,249 Expenses: Looked at the 2019 Convention expenses in detail: TOTAL: $5905 Looked at the 2019 one and two day meeting expenses in detail: TOTAL: $2776 (one day meeting) / $4602 (2 day meeting) Looked at the 2019 AIO in detail: TOTAL: $2950 Looked at the 2019 Australian in detail: TOTAL: $4980 Summary: TOTAL EXPENSES: $26,794 TOTAL INCOME: $52,249 Difference: +$25,356 Discussion: This motion applies to founding members who have been involved with AIDA Inc. for the past 50 years, these members are Jan Currie-Henderson and Catherine Cosgriff Monica Simpson: It is not until you actually sit on Council and see the work these people do and the knowledge they have that you become aware of how invaluable their knowledge and advice can be.



Elizabeth Lewis: I wish to reiterate what has been said regarding the knowledge, advice and expertise that Jan and Cathie have. This was first raised at Council level and I felt that this needed to be explained to the Members regarding the expenses associated with this decision. Our minds have certainly been put at rest today. Amendment 10.1 Motion to include Patron and Founding Members in the AIDA Inc. Council Accepted by Christine and Hilary That a Patron and any founding member/s of AIDA with continuous membership with their Regional branch and AIDA Inc, be appointed as non voting members to the National Council. Moved: Christine Portbury Seconded: Hilary McKenna All in favour Carried 10.2 AIDA Membership Registration Procedure To be discussed under 10.3.1 Membership 10.3 Pupil Registration Procedure 10.3.1 - Motion: That a date be formalised for the implementation of the new Pupil Registration process. Moved: Alison Pickett Seconded: Kelli-Rai Howden Discussion AIDA SA branch reported on the continued frustration for their parents with the present system. Pupil Registrar Leanne McGrath advised that we need all states to register for an ANZ bank account to implement this system and to date only one region had responded. It is not feasible to run this process through the AIDA Inc. account due to GST implications... The AIDA Vic Treasurer, advised that the Victorian Region were now ready to go. AIDA NSW advised they were in the process of setting up the ANZ account and were in favour of the new process. The reason for an ANZ Account. AIDA Inc banks ANZ, and our website cannot incorporate any other bank accounts. The present process was outlined by Leanne McGrath explaining how this process works at a state by state level which needs to happen due to different costs associated with different branches. $10 of this is sent to AIDA Inc and the rest goes to the appropriate AIDA Branch. This is a two step process at the moment rather than a single online shopping process that we all would be familiar with. The following two motions submitted on Pupil Registration process were withdrawn 10.3.2 - Motion: A review of the Online Pupil registration process be undertaken to improve the ease of use for dancers and families. Clarification requested in relation to the need for States to open an ANZ bank account. Moved: AIDA Queensland Branch Motion Withdrawn



10.3.2 - Motion: A review of the Online Pupil registration process be undertaken to improve the ease of use for dancers and families. Clarification requested in relation to the need for States to open an ANZ bank account. Moved: AIDA Queensland Branch Seconded: Motion Withdrawn Original Motion:10.3.1 - Motion: That a date be formalised for the implementation of the new Pupil Registration process. Moved: Alison Pickett Seconded: Kelli-Rai Howden All in favour Carried Suggested Date: Meeting Agreed to 30th June 2019 10.3.1 Membership Discussion Points

• Members not registered with both AIDA Inc and State Branches • Different State Constitutions allow for members only to be registered in their Region • CLRG registration does not automatically allow free admission into feiseanna

throughout the world. This is at the discretion of each event. • Members query what they get in return for their $99 membership fee • Members need to be aware that our $99 is not to pay for a program or entry. Our

$99 is paying for Irish Dancing in Australia to run and allowing the volunteer work to occur that will keep our association running

• Some members have difficulty with the three step process. Can we have the CLRG registration that is isolated and then join the state and branch registration together

• Majority of states registrations are $20

Decision: To take back to the states to discuss the one fee of $120-00 which would cover both AIDA Inc. and State Branch Registration

10.4 Fees - 2020 Motion: AIDA Inc Membership fee remains $99 Moved: Kelli Rai Howden Seconded: Kate Hartley All in favour Carried Pupil Registration Treasurer Jared Ellis: All expenses have increased across the board and our pupil registration has remained at $10 for a number of years. I feel this should be increased by $3 per year. Suggestion from the floor of $15



Motion: AIDA Inc Pupil Registration fee for 2020 increase to $15 per pupil Moved: Jared Ellis Seconded: Caroline McCarthy All in favour Carried 10.3.3 Feis Registration Motion: AIDA Inc Feis Registration fee for 2020 remain unchanged Moved: Jared Ellis Seconded: Fiona Holmes All in favour Carried 10.5 Grading Rules Motion: That the updated Grading Rules - with the Leg Tan rule clearly worded - be uploaded to the AIDA Inc. website. Moved: Jackie Miller Seconded: Deirdre Murphy Discussion: Kelli-Rai Howden: The rule states that no leg tan is to be used for Novice, Bun and Tus dancers. This is in the AIDA rules but does not appear anywhere on the website Donna Cannon: This is on the Members Area but not the Parent Area. Margaret will update the website NO VOTE REQUIRED 10.6 Disputes Committee Meeting Report (SUNDAY) Disputes Committee Members meeting Sunday morning. 10.7 Motion: AIDA Inc. to seek clarification from the Oireachtas Committee and/or Rules Committee in relation to dancers that regularly transfer from an Australian school to an Overseas School and the impact that this has on that dancers’ access to a qualifying event for Oireachtas Rince na Cruinne. Moved: AIDA Queensland Branch Seconded: Alison Pickett Background: In the current climate where there are multiple dancers traveling overseas for extended periods it is essential to get a uniform approach around Australia as to how these dancers are dealt with in relation to their access to qualifying events. Dancers need to have attended a regular class prior to being able to transfer to a different school and in the event that entries have closed for their Australian State qualifying event they may not be able to enter if the entries close prior to their return to Australia. There is a possibility that qualifying places may be reduced which increases the impact for those dancers that remain in Australia supporting our events potentially missing out on a qualifying place with someone returning from overseas that then takes that qualifying position back overseas with them.



Discussion: Catherine Cosgriff: Read out letter by AIDA Queensland and has followed up with the Oireachtas and Rules Committees. There are different situations around the world so AIDA Inc will follow up for a ruling from the Rules Committee on this situation. Membership will be advised. 10.8 CLRG Directives - Registration CLRG Registration requirement from 2020 will require certificate of proof of completion of a recognised child protection course. Genevieve Carroll will look into the best online course for members here in Australia to undertake. This will now be compulsory for reregistration for both the CLRG and AIDA Inc. 10.9 CLRG Directives - Anti-bullying statement CLRG has directed that the following statement should be adopted by all dancing schools: ANTI BULLYING STATEMENT - Bullying and unkindness, whether physical or emotional, are entirely unacceptable at ….. (name of dancing school). It conflicts sharply with the school’s principles and I will always treat it seriously. - Bullying is behaviour by an individual or group, repeated over time, which intentionally hurts another individual or group, either physically or emotionally. - Bullying can take many forms (including cyber-bullying via text messages or the internet). - If you feel that you are being bullied, or are concerned about bullying, please contact me immediately. Discussion: This will go up on the AIDA Inc website and all schools are advised to include it in class documentation as well. 10.10 CLRG Directives - Ceili Walk on and walk off Notice circulated world-wide on Tuesday 18th December 2018 from An Cathaoirleach, Francis Curley: In all Ceili Competitions at Oireachtas Rince na hEireann and Oireachtas Rince na Cruinne, over-elaborate entrances and exits from stage must be avoided. Dancers should walk directly to their starting positions from stage left avoiding the start and stop, co-ordinated turns and complicated manoeuvres that are becoming increasingly common. At the conclusion of the performance, couples should turn in place to face front of stage. When the bell is rung, only one bow is permitted. All couples should exit stage right. Talking on stage before, during or after the performance must also be avoided. Discussion: Teams attending future World Championships in 2020 need to be fully aware of this rule. Hilary McKenna: This proposal is about reducing the time in ceili competitions and we should be encouraging our teachers should follow rules as stipulated by CLRG



10.11 CLRG - World Championships Sections 2020 World Championships introduction of – Notification and discussion on the new ceili and figure dance sections for the 2020 World Championships Clarification will be sought from CLRG re the 4 Hand Mixed Sections and their qualifications for the World. AIDA Inc. to request that the Under 13 8 Hand Figure not be set for the Qualifying Events. 11. Australian International Oireachtas 11.1 Syllabus and Timetable Changes to the syllabus include a preliminary championship, result on the first 2 rounds of the open championship. New for Priomh Comortas (Premier Championship) events include Mean Priomh Comortas Adult A Priomh Comortas new dancers who have never taken classes as a juvenile Adult B – Priomh Comortas dancers who have been out of dancing for five years The Hotel is nearly fully booked so expecting the numbers will increase from 2018. Discussion: Results – It was decided that the Preliminary Results will be held at the end of the day after all the Open Championship results have been given. Note the prize ratio awarded in the Preliminary Championships is 50%. It maybe that some of the dancers placed in the Prelim will not be recalled in the Open Championship. Suggestion that the dancers in the preliminary result are told they will be required in the same way we do for the teams at the Australian. 11.2 AIO Funding, sponsorship and advertising update - Donna Reilly-Cannon and Leanne McGrath Discussion: Donna Reilly (Sponsorship): Our sponsorship is filling and members are encouraged to go to the online shop this weekend and sponsor a section or event Leanne McGrath (Advertising): There are some specials that end this weekend. Please go online while we are here (with the free wifi at The Rex) and make your purchases 11.3 AIO Grade Exams - Gabrielle Hall Discussion: Gabrielle Hall: Applications for Grade Exams close on March 12. More information will be sent when an examiner has been decided. Online credit card fees will apply so it might be worth dividing this fee between dancers



11.4 AIO Budget - Jared Ellis Report – Jared - We are sitting in a good place financially for the AIO. A couple of changes have been made to the 2019 AIO syllabus. The budget we have put together sees a few increases in relation to this, including a slight increase to door entry and competition entry. ‘Other’ refers to things such as stationery, printing and incidentals that we pay for every competition. Budget attached 11.5 Any other AIO business Christine Portbury: Cash flow is an issue. The AIO airfares for overseas adjudicators and musicians cannot be booked at the present time. Jared Ellis: Suggested that we open the AIO entries earlier which will assist with the cash flow and also assist teachers with the collection of entry fees to be spread out throughout the year for our dancing families Budget Discussion: Jared Ellis (State Delegate Expenses Division): Numbers presented to the room regarding how many members are in each state. Detailed what the state delegates levies covered As it stands at the moment, states cover the cost of the delegates from their home to the airport and then the percentage split is used to cover all other costs. AIDA Inc covers all meals and travel to and from meetings. 11.5.1 Motion: To change the dress rule for 6 & Under Mixed competition at the AIO to studio/school costume for girls and boys or skirt and leotard for girls. Moved: Donna Reilly-Cannon Seconded: Sarah Hockley Discussion: Donna Reilly: In 2007, we stipulated that all Bun dancers wear ceili costumes or plain black costumes. As the 6 and Under section involves two dances that are at Bun speeds. We are allowing our dancers wear elaborate costumes in this section which could be considered a Bun section. If we stick to the rule that is on the books, then I think they should be wearing plain costumes for this section Catherine Cosgriff: I am not in favour of this motion as this is a Championship. While dancers in Bun sections do have to wear the costumes as per the rules on the books, this section is different as it is a Championship Christine Portbury: This cannot be applied for the 2019 AIO as the syllabus has already been distributed worldwide. If accepted would come into effect for the 2020 AIO. Breeda Peirce: We need to ensure we are making the rules for the general population and not the exception Decision was left until Sunday to discuss with the proposed introduction of a 6 Years Championship. Result of Motion as follows -



Motion: To change the dress rule for 6 & Under Mixed competition at the AIO to studio/school costume for girls and boys or skirt and leotard for girls. Moved: Donna Reilly-Cannon Seconded: Sarah Hockley For: 63 Against: 80 Abstain: 1 Motion lost 12. Australian National Championships 12.1 National Championships Budget - Jared Ellis Jared Ellis: Figures presented to the meeting regarding the proposed budget in 2019 12.1.1 - 7th and 8th Adjudicator Funding either by State levy or an increase in solo entry fee to $110.00 Discussion:

• This has been raised at a previous convention but has not come to fruition yet. At the moment, we cannot afford to run this Championship with a 7th and 8th adjudicator unless we levy the states or increase entry fees. The cost at the moment at a minimum is $13,300.

• Do we have to have a 7th and 8th adjudicator? • Should we have a separate ballot for the 7th and 8th adjudicator to come from

Australia or New Zealand? • Most members like the present system of - first 2 rounds 4 adjudicators recall round

3 adjudicators. Dances are more evenly weighted • How to fund 7/8 adjudicators – • Increase entry fees to $110-00 (Entry fees AIO $95-00 6 adjudicators. Nationals has

8 adjudicators) • Any state levies would need to pass onto their dancers

12.1.2 - Entry Fees Motion: The Solo entry fee is $110 per dancer Moved: Jared Ellis Seconded: Fiona Holmes For: 167 Against: 7 Carried Motion: The Ceili and Figure Dance entry fees remain the same at $15 per dancer in each team Moved: Kelli-Rai Howden Seconded: Elizabeth Gregory All in favour Carried



12.1.3 - Entry closing date Chris Carswell: We could open the entries early to ensure we have cash flow. Closing Date: 19th July Trophy Discussion:

• To look at having a specific trophy like at the AIO and at competitions overseas. This could save a lot of time, money and ensure we don’t have any waste.

• It is nice to enable the local branch to be part of the process and make each Championship unique

• This is for the top 10 dancers only and medals from 11th onwards. Do we have the storage if we bought in bulk? And sourcing them from overseas would be the cheapest option

• To get a trophy at the Australian is special, in the same way a World Championship medal or an All Ireland medal is. We don’t need to have something huge but in thinking about our branding, we do need to consider something iconic

• This is a big decision as we are changing something we have always done. Perhaps State Delegates can bring this back to the branches and discuss at the Council meeting.

Perpetual Trophies: Discussion

• issue in 2018 where a solo trophy was not returned so a dancer was not presented with their winning trophy.

• It was discussed that we implement a fine to the dancer or teacher and even not accepting entries the following year until that fine was paid

• Can we stop dancers in competing in competitions by AIDA Inc? • We can’t stop people from competing in a qualifier • Fee Suggestion we specify that we will give four weeks to pay the fine and if it is not

paid, the fine increases to $1500 to pay for a replacement trophy • The dancer who won the Australian won without their trophy. They might never win

again. This is not good enough. • The trophy should be back at the beginning of the week and if it is not then the

problem can be resolved. Did we not have this rule in place a few years ago? • We do have to protect the history of the trophy so this is about more than money • We need to think about the state of repair of trophies as some come back in a less

than desirable condition • There is already something on the books about that - a fine of $250 if repairs need to

be made • Perhaps we need to have photos that allow us to look at this more closely in the

future Motion: A fine of $150 is charged to the signatory if a perpetual trophy is not returned the day before the commencement of the relevant competition for both Solo and Ceili Competitions. Moved: Kelli-Rai Howden Seconded: Charmayne Dulley



Amendment to the Motion: A fine of $150 is charged to the signatory if a perpetual trophy is not returned the day before the commencement of the relevant competition for both Solo and Ceili Competitions. If the trophy is not returned within four weeks, there is an additional fee of $1500. Moved: Caroline McCarthy Seconded: Teresa Fenton For: 138 Against: 4 Carried 12.2 Solo/Ceili Dances and Figures 12.2.1 Ceili Dances 2019 Under 10 – 4 Hand Reel – 2nd Figure Under 12 – Humours of Bandon – First Fig Under 15 – 4 Hand Reel - 1st Figure Under 18 – 4 Hand Humours of Bandon – 2nd Figure Open Age – 4 Hand Reel –1st Figure Eight hands Part B except for Under 10 Catherine Cosgriff advised ceili dances for 2020: Ceili Dances for 2020 Received: Under 10 – 4 Hand Reel – 2nd Figure Under 12 – 4 Hand Reel – 2nd Figure Under 15 – Humours of Bandon – 2nd Figure Under 18 – 4 Hand Reel – 1st Figure Open Age – Humours of Bandon – 1st Figure Discussion: Fiona Holmes: I want to discuss the Under 12 section doing Part B of an 8 Hand. I would like to suggest that the Under 12s can do Part A in the 8 Hand Christine Portbury: We are following the World Championship syllabus as this is a qualifying event. AIDA Inc to follow up with CLRG Choreography Music: Chris Carswell: There have been music submissions that have music including vocal elements. Are we happy with this? If there is nothing done it remains the same Fiona Holmes: We cannot have words in our music so that needs to be added back into the syllabus for 2s, 3s and 4s as well as figure dance championships



Presentation Protocol: Discussion on presentations and how it was important that all our dancers and donors are being recognized in the appropriate manner. We need to be mindful that some trophy donors would like a photo with the dancer who won their trophy. Top 5 place getters will all receive their trophies and then any trophy donors will be introduced and will present starting from 5th place to lst place, In the ceili events trophy donors will present to the teacher. There is to be a stage steward who will monitor the presentations. Presentation protocols to be drawn up by council so that presentations are consistent across all competitions. This will include the podium dressed in the same way prior to each presentation. Adjudicator Sign Off Protocol: It was decided that our adjudicator sign off on marks would remain the same and we would not follow the process at World, when you leave the table, your mark cannot be altered. Two at a time/Three at a time: Discussion

• Would we look at having the 7s and 8s who only do two steps of the jig in threes? I would like to see them in twos or have them dance a three step jig.

• Three at a time in a jig for a smaller section have less time between rounds • We have had dancers miss their turn for the last two years due to the quick

turnaround • We could get backlash for doing this with the smallest section and not the next ones.

Maybe we could look at having the entire section backstage before the light round dances

• Issue is that the 7s and 8s are not getting the same stage time as other dancers The motion to be discussed tomorrow so members can speak to their proxies Motion: At the Australian Championships, the 7 and 8 Years dancers dance two at a time for their heavy round. If there are three at the end of the section, they dance in a three. Moved: Leanne McGrath Seconded: Monica Simpson To be discussed on Sunday

Meeting closed - 5.30pm



AIDA Inc – 2019 AGM & CONVENTION Canberra, Australia – 23 & 24 February 2019

CONVENTION Sunday 24 February 2019

Commencing 9.00am

Present: Christine Portbury, Catherine Cosgriff, Janice Currie-Henderson, Fiona Holmes, Caroline O’Driscoll, Melissa Kennedy, Hilary McKenna, Teresa Fenton, Jenny O’Hare, Eileen Ashley, Caroline McCarthy, Jarred Ellis, Ashlee Renshaw, Charmaine May, Catherine Poulton, Monica Poulton, Elizabeth Lewis, Bernadette Weeks, Michelle Gough, Samarah Symons, Leanne McGrath, Gabrielle Hall, Alison Pickett, Liz Gregory, Jackie Gregory, Megan Palmer, Yvonne Hill, Yvette Jackson, Breeda Peirce, Ann Truman, Charlotte Sweeney, Kate Hartley, Maggie Gaffney, Margaret Dempsey, Bernadette Helbig, Eleanor Grose, Donna Reilly-Cannon, Donna Carey, Monica Simpson, Tammi Curtis, Glenys Ritchie, Kelli-Rai Howden, Chris Carswell, Genevieve Carroll, Ann Derwent, Alicia Dunne, Gabrielle Dinn, Sarah Hockley, Kirrienne Coughlan, Hayley Cannon, Charmayne Dulley, Clare McAleer, Stephanie Fereday, Jennifer Bird, Clare Bowman, Kathleen Beattie, Lynn Crafter, Kathleen Beattie, Marie Sweeney, Sharon Carey, Maria Astley, Elise Furlong. Apologies: Martine Micklem, Bianca Nicholls, Ann Pololenko, Louise Hanratty, Adrian Walker, Sean Kelliher, Charmaine Paddock, Catherine Crocker, Julie Idema, Bridget Bazzo, Clare Earl, Christine Folan, Mary McGregor, Tegan McGregor, Vicki Paulin, Maria Maher, Sandra Danastas, Niamh Champion, Ciara Podesta, Aislinn Podesta, Eleanor Rooney, Roisin Lyons, Vicki Lynagh, Kate Smith, Kate Woodward, Clare Michelson, Margaret Atkinson, Karen Clark, Mairead Bilton-Gough, Avril Grealish, Char Chase, Renne O’Farrell, Rebecca Jackson, Cheryl Medley, Jacqui Bigby, Fiona Gaye Moore, Danah Pitman, Megan Cousins, Donna Halloran, Leanne Halloran, Branagh Kelly, Catherine Crocker, Christine Ayres, Michael Padgett, Liam Ayres, Jennifer Devlin, Conor Ayres, Michelle Burgess, Lara Upton, Emilie Helbig, Elise Furlong, Laura McBride, Brighid Mackness, Kathryn Trenholme, Jan Berne, Alli Bennett, Deirdre Murphy, James McEvoy, Kate Halloran, Eilis Melino, Rochelle Melino, Heather Fraser, Suzanne Hayes, Shannon Krupa, Steph Howard, Sheryl Watkins, Tegan Horwood, Anita Plaza, Kelly Rumble, Kain Howden, Danny Jackson, Katherine Travers, Rose O’Brien, Martina O’Brien, Karen Cividin, Katelyn Dempsey, Cathy Seidel, Maria Maher (Saturday Only), David Laws, Caroline Gossip, John Joyce, Angela Fogarty, Brendan Tiernan, Rebecca Lewis, Jacqueline Ryan, Hayley Delaney, Molly Rafferty, Kathy Challen, Jackie Miller, Glenalee Bromilow, Lisa Wyatt, Michelle Burgess, Siobhan Truman, Anne Marie O’Neil, Kathy Challen, Kain Howden, Margaret Atkinson, Heather Fraser, Brendan Tiernan, Mary Grantham Christine Portbury: Introduction - Disputes Committee Genevieve Carroll: This morning we have met as a group and it is exciting to know that we are ready to work together with an understanding of issues that might come our way. We discussed procedures, confidentiality and transparency in regard to how we will work. We are looking for a Grievance Officer and we will communicate with the membership when that has been organised.



We also discussed the Member Protection Policy which is ready to go and will be put up on the website shortly. The Council is also establishing an email ([email protected]) and we need to know the process of how that will be checked and who will be responsible for that. We also want to be proactive rather than reactive. We want to ensure we have a committee member working with branches to help them implement this process. We also need to ensure that parents and members of the community are aware of the processes which we will follow. There is an online course that all members of the disputes committee have completed that we feel that all members of AIDA Inc should complete. This course provides members with a two year certificate that will allow members to keep up to date with Australian and State laws. We also spoke about whether someone comes to members of the committee individually how we would move forward with that. We are ok for that to happen and will ensure that we are transparent with our processes/ Presentation: Fiona Holmes - Jump’n Jig (www.jumpnjig.com.au) Presentation: Dr Cristian Torres - Clinical Psychologist (capitalclinicalpsychology.com)

Lunch - 12.30pm

Confirmation of votes 1.30pm: 58 members present 87 proxy votes TOTAL: 144 Revisit discussion from yesterday: Motion: At the Australian Championships, the 7 and 8 Years dancers dance two at a time for their heavy round. If there are three at the end of the section, they dance in a three. Moved: Leanne McGrath Seconded: Monica Simpson Further Discussion:

• If our 7s and 8s are on first in the morning, we need to be aware that our adjudicators are seeing our dancers for the first time. Two at a time might allow our adjudicators to ease into the competition

• Issue with the three dances at the end as they are effectively disadvantaged considering we are making this decision to give them more viewing time as a two. I also think we could alleviate this by adding 8 bars onto the jig

• If we want to change this and give them more time then why don’t they all do the set dance? This is the same at the AIO and we could just go straight into it. We would have the same panel and they would see them for three full rounds



• If we are going back to the original motion, I am happy for the 8 years to do the steps. I think there is an element of luck or not with the placement of the section. When we look at other sections there could be a perceived advantage for the dancers at the end who dance in 2s.

• I worry that the jump from a two step jig and a traditional set to a full hornpipe and OC set is a big jump. If we add that they are dancing in twos as an 8 and then go to threes as a 9, this is another change again

• A two step jig is really short. As a three, there are chances that a child will get more easily missed in such a quick dance. I just don’t think there is enough air time with three on the stage and two steps

Amendment to the Motion: On the grounds that the Treble Jig is 32 bars for 7s and 8s at the Australian Championship, dancers dance two at a time for their heavy round. If there are three at the end of the section, they dance in a three. Moved: Teresa Fenton Seconded: Hilary McKenna For: 101 Against: 41 Abstain: 2 Motion Carried Motion: On the ground that the Treble Jig is 32 bars for 7s and 8s at the Australian Championship, dancers dance two at a time for their heavy round. If there are three at the end of the section, they dance in a three. Moved: Teresa Fenton Seconded: Hilary McKenna For: 101 Against: 41 Abstain: 2 Motion Carried Correspondence read out: Letter to Christine Portbury: A message from Margaret Atkinson wishing all at the Convention the best of luck as well as apologies for not being in attendance. 12.2.2 Update on 2019 changes to syllabus (per CLRG notice) No discussion 12.2.3 Motion: That in order to generate more income, AIDA Inc. introduces a 6 Years & Under section for the Nationals as with the AIO. Moved: Breeda Peirce Seconded: Ann Truman Discussion:

• I don’t feel this should carry the same weight as a Championship; maybe we could have two adjudicators instead

• We could do what we do at the AIO and have just one adjudicator • A six year old winning the Australian on a light jig doesn’t feel right • If this is about income, how many do we think we would get?



• At the AIO, we get between 20-30 • If we have 20 competitors, we stand to make an additional $2200 • I think a 6 year old as an Australian Champion is very young. Perhaps the AIO is a

better place for us to direct those dancers to participate 12.2.3 Motion: That in order to generate more income, AIDA Inc. introduces a 6 Years & Under section for the Nationals as with the AIO. Moved: Breeda Peirce Seconded: Ann Truman For: 23 Against: 121 Motion lost Revisit from yesterday: 11.5.1 Motion: To change the dress rule for 6 & Under Mixed competition at the AIO to studio/school costume for girls and boys or skirt and leotard for girls. Moved: Donna Reilly-Cannon Seconded: Sarah Hockley For: 63 Against: 80 Abstain: 1 Motion lost 12.2.4 2019 Syllabus confirmed 12.2.5 2020 Solo/Ceili Dances and Figures Catherine Cosgriff: We don’t know what will change after Greensborough. The solo dances stay the same in each age group except for Senior Ladies and Senior Men AIDA would need to come into line with the figure dancing changes for 2020. Catherine Cosgriff: If you want to enter mixed four hands in the World, you would have to qualify the team here 12.3 Nationals Ceili Motion: A team with dancers aged 7 and under should still be able to enter ceili events at the Australian National Championships with no minimum age requirement, notwithstanding that the teacher would not be able to qualify that particular team for the World Championships. Moved: Eleanor Grose Seconded: Sarah Hockley Background: This relates to the rule in the World Syllabus relating to the minimum age of Ceili Dancers being 8 years and that the age concessions apply uniformly to Regional or National Oireachtas. It is felt that there needs to be a balance of somehow allowing our younger teams to participate, but still allow a team to qualify for the World Championships. We don’t want any school / team / dancers to be disadvantaged.



Discussion: Eleanor Grose: I don’t think it is clear regarding the ages in teams and I would like it clarified regarding the qualifying age groups Catherine Cosgriff: If you enter a team in an age group, you qualify a team for the world. It does not have to be the same dancers. I think this question should be asked to the Oireachtas Committee. We can follow this up in April Eleanor Grose: Can I put 6 year olds with 9 year olds in a team? Catherine Cosgriff: We would accept this here. MOTION WITHDRAWN Confirmation of votes 2.30pm: 54 members present 86 proxy votes TOTAL: 140 12.4 Nationals Days-only timetable Listed on the AIDA Inc website 12.5 Sponsorship - Canberra Committee Christine Portbury introduced the Canberra Sponsorship team -Jacqueline Gregory, Gabrielle Dunn and Megan Palmer who gave a presentation. We have a number of possibilities available to our community and the wider market. We would like to have representative from each state to work with us to ensure we are promoting this in Canberra and then in other locations, such as Perth for the 2020 Australian. We would like to have a page on the internet that will allow people to support our event online. We would also like to place details about our championship on sites that attract sponsorship opportunities for larger companies. We need a representative from each state that the delegate will let us know as soon as possible. We would like these details by March please. Logo: The 2019 Australian Logo was presented to the Convention. Designed by a parent from the Simpson School. 12.6 Social Events 12.6.1 - Teacher’s Reception A reception will be held on the Monday evening 30th September 2019 prior to the Championships at the Rex Hotel. Further details to follow. 12.6.2 - Canberra Gala Ball The Canberra Gala Ball will be held on Saturday 5th October 2019 at The National Museum in Canberra. Age from 16 years. There will be a cheaper nonalcoholic ticket available for



purchase. Min. of 180 tickets to be sold. Further details to issue shortly. Co-ordinator Gabrielle Dinn to liaise with Council. 12.6.3 - Ceili/End of Championships Party Sunday 6th October Canberra Ceili to be held at the venue commencing at 8 pm. 12.7 Marks - Teachers Room Motion: Marks be displayed in the Teachers Room for all members at the National Championships. Moved: AIDA Victoria Seconded: Fiona Holmes All in favour Carried Discussion: Fiona Holmes: This was raised at a branch meeting as in Cairns they were removed by teachers. I was advised by the Treasurer that if we wanted to view them we had to buy them. My younger teachers were also told the same thing Christine Portbury: Advised that there will be boards in the teachers’ room in Canberra where the marks can be displayed. 12.8 Motion: AIDA Inc to reinforce to CLRG members and audience members that coaching of dancers whilst dancing on the stage is not permissible. Moved: AIDA Queensland Branch Seconded: Chris Carwell All in favour Carried Background: At recent Championships there have been instances of Teachers, sometimes in the line of sight of the Adjudicators, and audience members coaching dancers from the audience. For all dancers but especially those that are young and inexperienced this can be distracting and confusing if there are people signaling to dancers on the stage and it should not occur. Discussion: Breeda Peirce: This was raised at our branch meeting as this was occurring at the Australian, particularly with the younger dancers. Can we remind members that this in not allowed? I don’t think you can police this but this is not acceptable behaviour, particularly in the 7s and 8s Teresa Fenton: We police cameras so we can police this Christine Portbury: We can police this with a hall manager. We will take this back to the Council Michelle Bilton: When working at the AIO last year, I saw people taking photos at the AIO and when I spoke to them about it, they were fine. Maybe we need to just mention this or announce it throughout the event



12.9 Motion: That AIDA Inc move to enforce the rules/guidelines that have been set up for the use of the Practice rooms at Championships. Moved: AIDA Queensland Branch Seconded: Christine Portbury All in favour Carried Discussion -

• At the recent Nationals there were a number of occasions where older dancers with their Teachers were having extensive practice sessions when the younger dancers were trying to warm up for their competitions.

• This area should be designated as a warmup area rather than a practice area and strict times for access by dancers that are not competing on that day need to be enforced.

• We had an issue in Cairns where a teacher was running a class. If this needs to happen, a teacher needs to hire an outside venue

• At Council level, we discussed the fact that on the Tuesday afternoon a lot of people were expecting access to the practice area which is not the case

12.10 Motion: That at all AIDA Inc competitions that there be a designated point in the Marshalling Area that no member is to go beyond unless expressly requested by the members staffing that stage area. Moved: AIDA Queensland Branch Seconded: Yvette Jackson Background: Teachers are going back to students in marshalling areas up until the point where they walk on stage this makes the role of the Stage staff more difficult. It is the Stage Coordinator and Marshal’s responsibility to care for the dancers and in the event that there is an issue they will contact the Teacher as needed. This is particularly problematic in an area that is quite confined but should be a blanket rule to avoid confusion. Discussion:

• We have had a rule in the past that teachers can visit their dancers backstage provided they do not stay with their dancers.

• I thought it was that up until they were in a certain part of the line, they could not be taken out of the line

• When teachers were rostered on duty side stage, some members took it upon themselves to communicate directly with adjudicators. This is the responsibility of the Hall Manager only (who is a member of Council). We do not want teachers going up to the adjudicators’ table during the competition.

• This was difficult last year as there was a very small space and a number of teachers were backstage giving coaching sessions while the dancers were in the line

• We also have an issue with other dancers in the school coming backstage as it can get very crowded. Perhaps this can go in the newsletter.

• We also need to be aware that teachers are busy and with two halls it can be tricky. We do need to be mindful of that.



• We do need a designated spot but I don’t like to think that we are not allowed back there at all. We also know that children can get anxious and if we can support our dancers by staying with them until they go on

• At the World Championship there are no teachers back stage at all. We also need to be mindful of teachers who are in the eye line of the adjudicators which is not acceptable. But I do think that in Australia we need to be aware of our dancers who are dancing for the first time.

• I don’t want our teachers to not be allowed to go back there. We are not dealing with dancers at a World Championship level. As long as teachers are not disrupting other dancers then I think we are ok.

Amendment to the Motion: At the AIO and the Australian Championship, there will be a designated point in the Marshalling Area that no member is to go beyond unless expressly requested by the members staffing that stage area. Moved: AIDA Queensland Branch Seconded: Yvette Jackson All in favour Carried 12.11 Australian Championships 2020 - Perth 12.11.1 - Dates 2020 Perth Championship will be 5 days in 2 halls. Dates -Wednesday 30th September - Sunday 4th October in two halls 12.11.2 - 2020 Nationals Entry fees Teresa Fenton: Would this be reviewed at the next Convention? Jared Ellis: Officially, they should be set at the next convention although it should be noted that there is most likely to be an increase due to the possible increase in venue hire. Adjudicator travel and Council travel will be more expensive 12.11.3 - Number of Adjudicators As agreed there will be 8 adjudicators in Perth. Invitations will be issued shortly. 12.12 Australian Championships dates 2021 Dates: 28th September - 3rd October, 2021 (tentative) 13. CLRG - An Ré Órga - 2020 World Championships Catherine Cosgriff: An Ré Órga - DUBLIN - 2020 A group, namely An Ré Órga, has been formed to spearhead additional celebrations marking the 50th Anniversary of Oireachtas Rince na Cruinne 2020. The challenges that present themselves are substantial, however, the opportunities that present themselves far outweigh anything else. An Coimisiun has decided that it will be ideal time to promote, enhance and leave a lasting legacy of our beloved Irish Dance as an art form for generations to come.



From the outset it is important that clear lines of responsibility are set out so that there is little confusion as to who should be doing what. At the highest level, there are three main groups that will deliver a totally glittering event next year. 1. The Oireachtas Committee 2. The Local Committee comprising of representatives from all four provinces in Ireland 3. An Ré Órga comprising of members from both inside and outside CLRG. Oireachtas Committee The prime responsibility of this committee is to oversee the delivery of the competitive aspects of the Championships. They will also ensure that all celebrations dovetail into the schedule as required. They will have the final decision on any proposals put forward by the other two committees. Local/Four Provinces Action Group This group will co-ordinate the “traditional” responsibilities placed on a local committee. This would include but not limited to:- • Teacher’s Reception • Graduation Ceremony • Celebration Ball • Teacher Hospitality • Souvenirs for Participants • Local volunteers to assist at the venue – Doors, Cloak room etc. • Local fund raising to cover the above costs. An Ré Órga ( Golden Era) This group will be led by Marie Duffy Pask and her appointed regional coordinators. It will also comprise of individuals interested in enhancing further celebrations marking the 50th Anniversary of the Championships. It will include:- • Delivering a truly International Event – Country themed days • Correct protocol followed – Dignitaries • Gala Opening ceremony – Theme “Competing through the Decades” • Closing Ceremony • Memory Lane – History of the Event – Founding members, CLRG & Oireachtas Chairs, Presidents, Venues, Champions, • Memory Village – Both digital and hands on displays – Costumes, Shoes, Medals, Trophies, Performances, Photographs • Music – A celebration and recognition of the contribution that Irish Music and Musicians have made to the Championships. • Conradh na nGaeilge – Contribution and importance of the language to the Championships and our Irish Dancing Culture. • Rince TV and Interviews • Technical – Enhanced production both on stage and front of House • Other events – Ceol, Craic agus Eile, including high profile concert(s) • Fund raising for all of the above So where and how does Australia/ New Zealand fit into these celebrations? 1. We have been asked to represent the 2000s in the Gala Opening Ceremony - Theme ‘Competing through the Decades’



2. There will be ‘Country themed days’ which means we will be managing the main stage on that particular day! Date to be advised. 3. On our themed day we are to provide entertainment on the main stage prior to results and it is hoped that food typical to Australia & New Zealand will be served. Our Opening Item At this point in time it is envisaged that there will probably be a large contingent of dancers from Australia and New Zealand planning to go to Dublin in 2020 and therefore many girls and boys who may be interested in participating in the opening ceremony. To organise an item from Australia/New Zealand will present a few challenges. I am currently in discussion with choreographers (Donna, Leanne and Kate Halloran) for our item. Other items for consideration/discussion include but not limited to: (a) Number of dancers in item - 30 (b) Selection of participants – intensive audition process (c) Commitment & availability for rehearsals (d) Dates & venues for both auditions & rehearsals (e) Maybe Australia could take on the Opening Ceremony item and New Zealand do the item on Australia/ New Zealand Day. Just my thoughts at this stage. Discussion: Catherine Cosgriff: Donna, Leanne and Kate Halloran have agreed to choreograph this event An Astraíl (the music donated by Marie Duffy) will be used Auditions can be held at the AIO and possibly at the Australian - dancers who audition must be intending to go to the World in 2020 Rehearsals possibly to be held in January 2020 at the Halloran Studio in Sydney 14. General Business 14.1 - Future Australian Championship Dates - Leanne McGrath Background: Currently the Australian dancers are offered 3 major championships by AIDA Inc and the State Branches throughout the year, that being; the Australian International Oireachtas, The State Championships and the Australian Championships. Our dancers are SO lucky to be offered these championships in such a small community, two of which are World Qualifiers. In 2018 and 2019 our three Championships were conducted in a period of just 3.5 months. This doesn’t account for the additional championships that are ran by individual schools. In Australia we have dancers who have won every major Championship around the world, including the most prestigious, World Championships. We don’t just have good dancers, we have fantastic dancers. We have dancers who are lucky enough to have opportunities to practice overseas in the lead up to Majors and we have even luckier dancers who have the ability to move internationally to train and compete at this high level year round. At the convention I’d love to see the amount of teachers who had dancers qualify for the World Championships at our recent National Championships. What an amazing achievement. And just because we are small, doesn’t mean it was easy. Those international



judges always comment on how good our dancers are… how great we are doing for a country so far away! So, to all those dancers who qualified, how excited are you to train in Australia for the worlds? How will you manage to stay competitively motivated for a major championship in April! 6 months away!!!!! 6 months. You tell me how many people will now go for the ‘experience’ as opposed for a recall, or a World Medal, or a World Podium, or a World win? The World Championships is thousands of dollars for our families to take a dancer to. And we are offering them ‘maybe’ 1 feis prior to them leaving. Australia, it’s not good enough. Are we setting our dancers up to fail at the World level unless they move overseas? Are we encouraging our dancers the overseas opportunities because we can’t handle the pace? Because we can’t be bothered? Or because our current calendar doesn’t give our dancers the ability to stay competitive year round? So, why do we give our dancers just 3 months of competition? New schools and new feiseanna: We have an astonishing amount of new teachers and new schools opening up around the country. It’s so great. These new teachers have big dreams like I hope we all still do. I’m sure they’d love to have a world champ. And I’m sure they’d love to run a feis one day. So between July and October, when should they have it? How can our families support yet another feis that is being crammed into our 3 month circuit? Businesses: Do you find yourself crammed with private lessons, extra classes being taken and simply just earning more money in this 3 month period? Our businesses need to focus around these championships right? It’s a busy period. Or, we could increase our business profits and bottom line by spreading out these championships. We would have a more constant flow of the busy period, and financially parents would be able to afford more throughout the year as they would be spreading costs out for feis’, private lessons, extra classes, etc over a 7 month period. I’m sure we would also find that dancers would continue on their dancing for a longer period of time as the whole year would be in focus not just a heavy three month period. Injuries, qualifications, etc: We ask a lot from our dancers in 3 months. We ask them to become crazy fit, super motivated and very focused. Great life lessons. Great life skills. And a higher chance of injuries. How many dancers do we see pushing themselves so hard because they want it so bad? Unfortunately, for dancers at schools who have the big push for just those 3 months the injury rate goes up, a lot! A dancer might now be out for the State Championships…. But that’s okay, we offer another world qualifying event, right? We sure do, and sometimes it’s just 2 weeks away…. This dancer now needs to travel overseas to compete in a world qualifying event if they want to qualify. We are giving our dancers 2- 8 weeks recovering time from an injury…. Fair? I’m not sure. But I’d love to see change. I am hoping that the AIDA members look at the opportunities that we are giving our dancers. Are we focusing on them, or us? Let’s have our world champions train here. Let’s



open up our competitive timeframes and provide more opportunities for both the dancers and ourselves in a variety of ways. Australia, we have to change our mindset. Discussion: Monica Simpson: I have tried to run competitions at other times in the year and it wasn’t viable so I am against this Teresa Fenton: We don’t have holidays in June and dancing is a Winter sport. We can’t train in the Australian summer Jan Currie: We are doing a good job over here, and while it is the fashion to go overseas at the moment, we need to trust that what we are doing here and the way we are doing it is pretty good. The other issue is that our school year is the opposite of the Northern Hemisphere. We need to make sure our dancers are supported with their education and having big competitions at the exam time is challenging Caroline O’Driscoll: If our championships were further apart, we would be able to have an on season and an off season to ensure they are able to train to be at their peak. We do need to ensure that our dancers have a cycle where they can condition and train appropriately Catherine Cosgriff: While I can see the points made by Leanne and agree with them, we need to think of our school students. If our school year went from September to July it might be possible. I think our dancing year needs to stay the same as it is. Fiona Holmes: I love that Leanne has come up with this idea; never lose this enthusiasm. The difficulty in Australia is our culture. My families and parents love Term 4 and if this went forward, my business wouldn’t run. Dancers overseas prioritise Irish Dancing over all other things whereas in Australia, kids do everything they can. I just don’t think this would work with our seasons, our weather, our culture and our history. Breeda Peirce: I support what Leanne has suggested and I love that younger members are bringing forward new ideas. This is a huge problem for dancers in Australia but unfortunately, this doesn’t work her with our weather and schooling. The culture that Fiona has mentioned means has perfectly summed up what happens in Australia. Kate Hartley: Can we hold this off until tomorrow and consider alternative options overnight? Sunday: Confirmation of votes 4.10pm: 47 members present 54 proxy votes TOTAL: 101 Motion: To change the dates of major Australian Championship competitions from 2020 onwards. Moved: Leanne McGrath Seconded: Sarah Hockley Discussion: Teresa Fenton: Dates for 2020 will not work due to bookings for 2020 already being made



Amendment to the Motion: To change the dates of major Australian Championship competitions from 2020 onwards. Moved: Leanne McGrath Seconded: Sarah Hockley For: 9 Against: 89 Abstain: 3 Motion lost Motion: To change the dates of the 3 major championships to the following: National Championships – July AIO – September State Championships - November Moved: Leanne McGrath Seconded: Sarah Hockley For: 5 Against: 92 Abstain: 4 Motion lost Discussion: Christine Portbury: November in Australia is tricky for Australian dancers due to school commitments Leanne McGrath: It is only a weekend Catherine Cosgriff: This would be difficult for musicians and we would need to have them here for five weeks which is a big ask. Motion: To change the dates of the AIO and State Championships to the following: AIO – May State Championships – November Moved: Leanne McGrath Seconded: MOTION WITHDRAWN Motion: To change the date of the AIO and State Championships to the following: AIO – June State Championships – November Moved: Leanne McGrath Seconded: MOTION WITHDRAWN



14.2 Wiggles Perpetual Trophy - Jennifer Bird I would like to put a proposal to all members of AIDA to consider a donation of a perpetual trophy in a section of the Australian championships named the Wiggles perpetual trophy. Their contribution of marketing our wonderful art of Irish dancing worldwide and their influence of additional new students to Irish dancing has been immeasurable over a period of over 20 years. I think it would only be fitting to thank them by having them recognised forevermore, and at our highest level. Putting this to all members for your consideration. Discussion: Jenny Bird: The Wiggles have done so much for us that it would be nice to acknowledge them in some way so that we can express our thanks for all they have done for us. Motion: I would like to suggest AIDA Inc donate a trophy in the name of The Wiggles for a smaller section Moved: Jenny Bird Seconded: Fiona Holmes For: 141 Against: 1 Carried OTHER BUSINESS: Charmayne May: Jan Currie is celebrating her 60th year of teaching this year and AIDA NSW are hosting a ball. Invitations have been sent out regarding this. 15. Acknowledgements and farewell Thank you to everyone for their attendance and Jackie Gregory and all the staff at The Rex Hotel for their hospitality.

Convention Concludes - 4.25pm

2019 Convention Minutes-CP - AIDA Inc

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Transcript of 2019 Convention Minutes-CP - AIDA Inc